Wednesday, January 11, 2006

Interesting Selma news

These stories were on WMPM's web site. Considering the recent comments that I have read in the newspaper, these stories are a bit surprising in some regards. It seemed that there was great support for closing the court house. I am not sure what all is behind the resignation of Jeff White, but I have a few ideas. Time will tell.

Selma Town Manager Resigns - Selma Town Manager Jeff White has resigned, reportedly at the request of the mayor and town council. The resignation was announced Tuesday night immediately after the council returned from a closed session. The council agreed to pay White for 90 days and to continue his health coverage. No reason for his resignation was given. Selma Mayor Charles Hester could not be reached for comment Wednesday morning.

Troy's comment: I am not surprised, considering the talk I have heard over the past several months. I know that there are a few more people on a "hit list". I will wait and see if it happens.

Selma Courtroom To Remain Open, At Least For Now - Following a public hearing, Selma town leaders said they will keep the Selma District Courtroom open for at least another six months but will look at ways to improve parking and loitering. A committee, made up of business owners, citizens, and an attorney, will be formed to look at ways to make improvements. Discussion started two months ago about closing the Selma courtroom after an inmate was stabbed outside the building. Sheriff Steve Bizzell raised safety concerns about transporting prisoners outside the Johnston County Courthouse. Afterwards, some businesses said the weekly session of court was a nuisance to them because of parking problems and so many people loitering outside. Selma Police Chief Charles Bowen said he didn’t care if the courtroom remained open or not. He said it would have no detrimental impact on his department other than the slight inconvenience of officers having to drive to Smithfield for court.

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